“Hero” is a word that sometimes gets tossed around far too freely nowadays, but there are truly hundreds of them right here in our community working tirelessly to make a difference without ever thinking about themselves or seeking recognition.

Those are exactly the kind of individuals we want to recognize as our 2016 Unsung Heroes.

For the third consecutive year, Leader Publications will dedicate a significant portion of our annual Horizons edition — coming Feb. 25 — to honor these men and women for their commitment and dedication.

What truly sets this recognition apart is that those recognized are generated solely by you, our readers.

Last year we honored 15 individuals, ranging from public servants to caregivers to dedicated volunteers, and just about everyone in between.

Every community our newspapers serves was represented.

We want to take it to the next level this year — but we need your help.

Tell us who your Unsung Heroes are for 2016. Who has gone above and beyond to make southwest Michigan and northern Indiana a better place to live?

It is easy to nominate someone. Simply send me an email telling me who your Unsung Hero is and why. Nominations can be printed in the newspapers anonymously but we need your name and contact info in case we have any questions.

If you prefer the old fashioned mail that works too. Either mail to or drop off at our office at 217 N. Fourth St., Niles, MI 49120. Either way, nominations must be received by Jan. 22.

Unsung Heroes come from all walks of life, all professions and all societal demographic labels. They may include the obvious examples of military personnel, police, fire and other emergency responders, but also extend to the senior citizen who keeps her church food pantry going or the neighbor who helps out someone less fortunate.

Let’s all work together to ensure some of these Unsung Heroes in fact have their merits sung loud and clear for all to hear.

 

Michael Caldwell is the publisher of Leader Publications LLC. He can be reached at (269) 687-7700 or by email at mike.caldwell@leaderpub.com.